Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) convenor YK Dhiren on Sunday raised questions over the role of the Assam Rifles and other security forces during the recent attack allegedly carried out by KNA-B and PDF militants in Kamjong district. Speaking on the sidelines of the 12th Foundation Day programme of Nongchup Imphal Palem Ima Apunba Lup (NIMPAL) at Urpok Machin Khwai Brahmapur Community Hall, Dhiren criticised a recent statement issued by the Assam Rifles regarding the rescue of a woman allegedly from the custody of KNA-B cadres in Kamjong.
He questioned where the Assam Rifles and other security personnel were when armed militants allegedly crossed over from Myanmar and attacked villages in Indian territory. According to Dhiren, houses were set on fire and civilians in Namlee village, Wangle village and Choro village came under attack while security forces remained “silent spectators.”
The COCOMI convenor further alleged that the ongoing conflict in Manipur was a “proxy war” being carried out through Kuki armed militant groups against the indigenous communities of the state. He questioned whether the government would acknowledge a security lapse if militants from Myanmar were allegedly able to enter Indian territory and attack villagers in Kamjong.
Stating that people now understand the nature of the crisis, Dhiren stressed the need for unity among the public and called for taking the people’s movement in what he termed the “right direction.” The NIMPAL foundation day programme was attended by several women leaders and civil society representatives, including NIMPAL president Th. Ibeyaima, All Manipur Women Social Reformation and Development Samaj president Th. Ramani, along with leaders of AMKIL and other organisations.